The joy of discovering he was to be the father of twin girls soon turned sadness for Michael Skrilow of Queens. Skrilow’s twins were born nine weeks early and Zoe weighed just 2 pounds, but they thrived.

“Their respiratory rate is a little lower, which is very good for them. If you’re in a calmer state you’re going to grow better, faster, and go home sooner,” Dr. Aimee Telsey told WCBS 880’s Marla Diamond.

Thousands are putting on their walking shoes this weekend to raise money and awareness for the March of Dimes. The March for Babies is the signature event of the year for the organization, and it’s dedicated to protecting premature babies.